When selecting a new hot water heater for your home, choose a water heating system that will not only provide enough hot water but also that will do so energy efficiently, saving you money.
This includes considering the different types of water heaters available and determining the right size and fuel source for your home. Check out the Energy Saver 101: Water Heating infographic below to learn more about the different types of water heaters and how to select the right model for your home.
TYPES OF WATER HEATERS
It’s a good idea to know the different types of water heaters available before you purchase one:
- Conventional storage water heaters offer a ready reservoir (storage tank) of hot water
- Tankless or demand-type water heaters heat water directly without the use of a storage tank
- Heat pump water heaters move heat from one place to another instead of generating heat directly for providing hot water
- Solar water heaters use the sun’s heat to provide hot water
- Tankless coil and indirect water heaters use a home’s space heating system to heat water
SELECTION CRITERIA
When selecting the best type and model of water heater for your home, consider the following:
Fuel type, availability and cost. The fuel type or energy source you use for water heating will not only affect the water heater’s annual operation costs but also its size and energy efficiency. See below for more on selecting fuel types.
Size. To provide your household with enough hot water and to maximize efficiency, you need a properly sized water heater.
Energy efficiency. To maximize your energy and cost savings, you want to know how energy efficient a water heater is before you purchase it.
Costs. Before you purchase a water heater, it’s also a good idea to estimate its annual operating costs and compare those costs with other less or more energy-efficient models.
Also be sure to do what you can to reduce your hot water use. You may also want to explore other strategies such as drain-water heat recovery to save money on your water heating bill.
